KOTA KINABALU: The political rivalry between PH and BN in Johor and Negeri Sembilan must be handled with care and responsibility, according to Sabah UMNO Treasurer Datuk Seri Dr. Salleh Said Keruak.
Citing electoral trends and the current fragmentation of opposition votes, he noted that collaboration between the two coalitions could bring certain benefits.
Yet, Salleh acknowledged that both sides have opted to contest against each other, and their choice deserves respect.
“The key issue isn’t whether they compete, but how they conduct that competition,” he wrote in a recent Facebook post.
He emphasised that campaigns should center on policy, governance track records, and practical solutions, rather than resorting to personal attacks or inflammatory language.
Salleh is currently part of a Sabah UMNO delegation, led by state party chief Datuk Jafry Ariffin, visiting Pasir Gudang in Johor.
During the trip, they met with Pasir Gudang UMNO Division Chief Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin to discuss ongoing political developments and readiness for upcoming state elections.
He also pointed out that many leaders and members within PH and BN were initially reluctant to cooperate.
“Still, they ultimately came together to form the Unity Government for the sake of national stability and Malaysia’s long-term prospects.
“That spirit of compromise should endure. State-level contests must not weaken federal-level collaboration,” he said.
In the end, Salleh stressed, voters will assess leaders based on their performance, integrity, and effectiveness.
“Healthy political competition alongside national cooperation reflects a strong and mature democracy,” he added.
